Churchill Downs Picks: Social Dilemma looking for a win on June 2

Churchill Downs has the Kentucky Derby in the background, but the rest of the Meet continues on. Prepped to run through the July 4th holiday, there will be a regular set of races Thursday through Sunday.

To kickoff the week, an 8-race card is coming your way! One of the features this summer is the new Matt Winn Turf Course, which opens with a brand new sodded surface. Check the weather conditions because rain might impact the situation. Whatever happens ... it should be fun and make for some excellent wagering opportunities.

At Horseracing.net/us we have you covered, including all of the action! It is a good time for some of the best that North American racing has to offer. Stay tuned! If you're looking for picks elsewhere around the country this Saturday be sure to check out our free Horse Racing Picks via the gold button below. Don't forget to follow us on Twitter ... Horseracing_USA !!!

Most Likely Winner: (Race 5: Gorman #7, 9/2):

I am a big believer in the training power of Kelsey Danner, and once again, she pairs with one of her top clients in Dede McGehee. This filly by American Freedom gets Lasix for the 1st time, and she ships in from running up at Indiana Grand. The class drop out of an ALLW Co. contest should bring relief, and I like the addition of Adam Beschizza. Winding the clocks back to last year, this one was up against some tough foes at Colonial Downs, Churchill, and then at Keeneland. If she can make the lead, sit just off the front, then I think she has a good shot to get these connections a win. Nice price … 9/2 … that will work.

Wagering Recommendation: $100 Win, #7

Off-the-Pace Play of the Day: (Race 3: Prince of Glory #2, 6/1):

Trainer Paul McGee has good stock in his barn, and will train his share of winners during the Churchill Meet. Here is a 3-yr-old gelding that progresses nicely from his 2nd career race to his 3rd. The speed figs rose, and he ended up in a respectable position. By Cairo Prince, I always like to see a lightly-raced maiden claimer that tries to re-rally when they are up against it. Joe Talamo has his moments in the saddle, and his best will be needed to get this one home. The boxcar price is inviting enough … he is a long shot for you.

Wagering Recommendation: $100 Bankroll, Graduated Wager WPS #2 ($10-W, $15-P, $75-S)

Spotlight Race of the Day: (Race 8: Dirt, 7F, ALLW127kn1x, F&M 3+):

With rain in the forecast, this dirt event could be a wet affair. The field has 9 older females drawn-in for this sprint, and that should make for a tough puzzle to solve. I am particularly interested to see how Steve Asmussen’s Pharoah’s Heart #5 will take to the Churchill Main Track. A 5-yr-old by … you can guess … she was well-bet when she arrived from Mark Glatt’s outfit. Little Red Feather trusts Asmussen, and he is coming off a banner weekend at Lone Star. His mare is still looking for his 1st win, and can get that notched today. I am not sure that Corey Lanerie has the best numbers when it comes to spots like this one, but he has a good chance to get to the winner’s circle. When it comes to a top pick, I am keen to back Al Stall’s Spendthrift bred/owned 4-yr-old, Social Dilemma #8. The filly has 3 2nds at Churchill under the old Spires, and maybe it is time for her to actually win one. I believe in the ability of Colby Hernandez, and he has the ability to get the job done for the orange and purple silks of Mr. B. Wayne Hughes … may he rest in peace. Here is the wager, using both of these accomplished runners.

Wagering Recommendation: $2 Exacta Cold, 8 w 5

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Enjoy some racing under the Twin Spires! Best of luck on another run at Churchill Downs!